Liquid refrigerant splashes into a technician's eye. What is the correct first response?
- Rub the eye to warm it and restore circulation
- Apply a hot compress for fifteen minutes
- Wait to see whether vision clears before acting
- Flush it with water and get medical attention
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D. Flush it with water and get medical attention
Flushing with clean water warms the tissue gently and washes out refrigerant and oil; a doctor should then examine the eye. Rubbing or direct heat damages frozen tissue further.
Reference: Refrigerant safety data sheets
Why is a large refrigerant release in a service pit or other low, enclosed area dangerous?
- The vapor is heavier than air and displaces the oxygen
- The vapor rises and collects at the ceiling
- The vapor reacts with concrete to form acid
- The vapor makes the concrete floor electrically conductive
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A. The vapor is heavier than air and displaces the oxygen
Refrigerant vapor sinks and can push breathable air out of pits and low spots, causing suffocation without warning. Ventilation is the protection.
Reference: Refrigerant safety data sheets; EPA Section 609 training
Breathing a high concentration of refrigerant vapor can cause
- a persistent cough but no other lasting effect
- immediate hearing loss in both ears
- dizziness, irregular heartbeat and collapse
- a skin rash that appears days later
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C. dizziness, irregular heartbeat and collapse
High concentrations displace oxygen and can sensitize the heart, leading to arrhythmia and collapse. These effects can occur quickly and with little odor to warn the technician.
Reference: Refrigerant safety data sheets